A recent high-profile family function hosted by BJP Lok Sabha MP Nishikant Dubey in Gulmarg has become the subject of internal discussions within BJP circles, especially following the Pahalgam terror attack. The event, marking Dubey’s 25th wedding anniversary, saw the participation of politicians from across party lines and featured tight security arrangements. However, the celebration’s scale and timing have triggered questions about VIP safety protocols at private events in sensitive areas like Jammu and Kashmir.
Pahalgam terror attack casts a shadow
The terror attack in Pahalgam has shaken the region and prompted a critical re-examination of security measures. While no direct link has been drawn between the Gulmarg event and the attack, the juxtaposition of a lavish gathering and a tragic security breach has led to growing concerns within the BJP about the vulnerability of VIP movements and gatherings in the valley.
BJP organisational elections
In the aftermath of the attack, the BJP has put its internal organisational elections on hold. Sources suggest that the decision stems not only from ongoing strategy discussions but also from the sombre political atmosphere following the killings. With key state-level elections for party presidents in Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh originally slated to be completed before the selection of a new national president, the entire organisational revamp is now likely to face delays.
Government admits security lapses in Kashmir
During an all-party meeting on April 24, Union Home Minister Amit Shah admitted there may have been security lapses surrounding the Pahalgam attack. “If nothing had gone wrong, why would we be sitting here?” Shah reportedly told Opposition leaders, acknowledging the need to investigate where and how these lapses occurred.
At the same meeting, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders grilled the government over the apparent failure of security deployment and intelligence coordination. They questioned why no security personnel were present at the attack site and raised broader concerns about protocol breaches in high-risk zones.
In its defense, the government reportedly pointed to a failure by local authorities to inform security agencies before opening the Baisaran area in Anantnag district, where the attack occurred. Traditionally, this area remains off-limits to the public until the start of the Amarnath Yatra in June, raising questions about premature access and lack of coordination.